The Western Bulldogs VFLW side headed to Darwin this Saturday afternoon to take on NT Thunder on their home turf.
Although a disappointing result, the Dogs showed impressive signs this weekend against a strong side – kicking the first two goals of the game within the first ten minutes.
Western Bulldogs AFLW premiership player Brooke Lochland played her first full game for the VFLW side, after being ruled out early with a concussion the week prior.
Lochland said the group are enjoying training together again and playing alongside the VFL listed players.
“It was great to get back out on the field in the red, white and blue and not only playing with my AFLW team mates but the girls from VFLW,” said Lochland.
“We have come together really well as a new team and are taking some positive steps in the right direction. “
Providing insight to the less experienced players, Lochland said that the AFLW group have been able to assist the VFLW squad in understanding the professional standards of football.
“We have a few girls who have just started football and obviously girls who have been playing for a long time with lots of experience, so there is always someone to learn from,” she said.
“Everyone is a leader in their own way on and off the field and we have a great group of girls who are really willing to improve, which we’re seeing every week.”
Although she wasn’t present on the field, premiership captain Ellie Blackburn stepped in as forward’s coach for the clash with NT Thunder.
“Ellie has many years of experience, not only as a player but within a football environment,” Lochland said.
“It was great having her as the forwards line coach on the weekend and the girls took her knowledge on board and onto the field.”
The Bulldogs fell to NT Thunder by 36-points at TIO Stadium, Darwin on Saturday afternoon.
WB: 7.5 (47)
NT: 13.5 (83)
Best: McLeod, Lochland, Ferres, Hunt, Birch
Goals: McLeod, Ferres 2, Morgan, Jolly, Francke 1
